Explain how it is possible for both organisms to be found in the same wound when their growth characteristics are fundamentally different.

Explain how it is possible for both organisms to be found in the same
wound when their growth characteristics are fundamentally different.

A 45 year old male presents to the Emergency Department with a post-operative wound
infection following minor surgery. Swabs are taken from the wound and the laboratory
reports the presence of Staphylococcus aureus (a strict aerobe) and Clostridium septicum (a
strict anaerobe). Explain how it is possible for both organisms to be found in the same
wound when their growth characteristics are fundamentally different.